A Family Heirloom in Motion: Q&A with Longtime MOVA Globe Owner, Thelma Gunter

One globe, eight years, countless memories.

When MOVA Globes first launched, we were unsure how the world would respond. Fortunately, people like Thelma Gunter took a chance on us early on — and her story reminds us just how powerful and meaningful a single object can become over time. In this heartwarming Q&A, Thelma shares how her MOVA Globe has become not just a home décor piece, but a treasured family heirloom that continues to spark curiosity, learning, and connection.

Introducing Thelma

A devoted mother of six and lifelong learner, Thelma lives in South Carolina with her husband. Their household is filled with joy, curiosity, and a shared passion for education — something that has clearly influenced their children, now working across top organisations such as Microsoft, AT&T, and Make-a-Wish.

Where and when did you first encounter MOVA Globes? What was your first reaction?

I was at a Brookstone store in Haywood Mall in Greenville, South Carolina when I first saw the MOVA Globe.  I was simply in awe at the ingenuity behind the globe and purchased it right there.

Which design do you own and why did pick this one? 

I have the blue MOVA Globe with the Political Map Blue. I felt that it was educational in helping me locate countries that I may not be too familiar with.

How has your experience been with the globe? How are you using it in your everyday life?

This globe has worked flawlessly for about eight years.  I keep it on a tiny shelf right next to my kitchen sink.  I have a TV near and whenever a country is mentioned, I will look at the globe to find where that country is located and what countries surround it.  I have a window above my sink, so I keep a piece of paper just behind the globe to protect it from direct sunlight.

Have you had any memorable reactions or interactions with friends and family regarding your globe?

I taught a class of 8 and 9 year old kids at my church. I took it with me and they were amazed when I told them a motor was inside and that it was working from solar power. The globe was a great object to teach them how there are powers on the earth that we can benefit from if we learn how to harness them.  Anyone who comes into my kitchen is amazed at the technology behind the globe.

Have you purchased additional MOVA Globes for yourself or other loved ones as gifts?

My son also got the Blue Political Map MOVA Globe and, being an engineer getting his MS in Manufacturing Engineering and Technology, he appreciates the craftsmanship.  I sent it to him while he was a missionary for two years in France. It was well used whenever he would have a new missionary companion and they would find the location of their homes as well as the homes of people they met from other countries.

If you could have any design on a MOVA Globe what would it be?

To be honest…the earth is my favorite. We are all here on this planet together. Governments have drawn lines that give us different laws and rules but we are spinning at the same rate with the same needs and desires.

Do you have any words for other MOVA Globe owners or people interested in buying one?

I mentioned harnessing the power of solar and then putting it together with technology to simulate this ever-turning earth.  I have been very pleased with the quality of this globe.  It is truly amazing. It is also something that will be passed down in our family.  If you want to purchase a truly nice unique gift for someone special… this is the gift to give. We love this globe.

Are there things you wish you could say that you owned before everyone else? Thelma has that distinction for us and we truly appreciate her support.